Washington County expects 20,000 more voters after strong early turnout

More than 20,000 voters are expected to turn out in Washington County for Election Day. That's according to Chuck Vest, administrator of elections for Washington County. Vest says the county saw over 27,000 early voters, surpassing the county's goal by 1,000 that had been set based on voter turnout in 2018. An estimated total of 47,000 votes for the election is expected. Races on the ballot include: Governor, US Senate, US House of Representative for District 1, Tennessee Senate District 3, Tennessee House of Representatives District 6, Tennessee House of Representatives District 7, Jonesborough mayor, Jonesborough alderman, Johnson City City Commission, and Johnson City school board. Three state amendments are also on the ballot. "People want their voices heard and if they want someone who represents their views, this is the best and easiest way to do it," Vest says. "As a collective voice, people in this area can elect those that represent them. The single best opportunity to do that is by voting." Vest says while lines typically hold steady on election day, it's expected to get a bit longer during lunchtimes. Polls at voting precincts will open at 8 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Voters will need to bring a photo ID. This can be a driver's license, passport, or any other state or federally issued ID. Once the polls close, results will begin being posted to the Washington County Election Commission's website and will be updated periodically as more totals come in. In preparation for elections, Vest says the county always has an emergency backup plan and an excess of machines. Measures are also implemented during every election cycle for physical and cyber security. If any voters have issues during voting or questions, there will be officers on site at the precincts. People can also call the Washington County Election Commission. Vest says one of the lesser-known things the public may not know about elections is the advanced prep work. "I think most people don't know how far in advance election offices have to plan for an election," he says. "It's usually two or three months before an election. We put all the machines in place and make sure they're programmed properly and tested. So there's a big run up to Election Day. It doesn't just happen that day." To find your voting precinct, look over a sample ballot or to check out the election results, go to wcecoffice.com.